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Saturday, August 30, 2014

7 Rules to Follow When Working With Freelancers

Freelancers are awesome professionals who can help your business grow, before you need to hire employees. I’ve used freelancers for years and they’ve helped my business, quite a bit.
Chris Byers, CEO of Formstack has some thoughts on how to do this and he’s shared his top tips for working with freelancers below.


7 Rules to Follow When Working With Freelancers

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Union Pacific Corporation CFO Rob Knight to Address Cowen and Company 7th Annual Global Transportation and Aerospace - Defense Conference

Union Pacific Press Release:

Union Pacific Corporation CFO Rob Knight to Address Cowen and Company 7th Annual Global Transportation and Aerospace - Defense Conference

OMAHA, NEB., AUGUST 27, 2014
Rob Knight, chief financial officer of Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP), will address the Cowen and Company 7th Annual Global Transportation and Aerospace - Defense Conference at 8:45 a.m. ET on Wednesday, September 3, 2014, in Boston.
Interested investors may view the presentation and listen to a live Internet webcast through our website atwww.up.com/investors. A replay of the audio webcast will be available shortly thereafter on Union Pacific's Investor website.
About Union Pacific
Union Pacific Railroad is the principal operating company of Union Pacific Corporation (NYSE: UNP). One of America's most recognized companies, Union Pacific Railroad connects 23 states in the western two-thirds of the country by rail, providing a critical link in the global supply chain. From 2004-2013, Union Pacific invested approximately $30 billion in its network and operations to support America's transportation infrastructure. The railroad's diversified business mix includes Agricultural Products, Automotive, Chemicals, Coal, Industrial Products and Intermodal. Union Pacific serves many of the fastest-growing U.S. population centers, operates from all major West Coast and Gulf Coast ports to eastern gateways, connects with Canada's rail systems and is the only railroad serving all six major Mexico gateways. Union Pacific provides value to its roughly 10,000 customers by delivering products in a safe, reliable, fuel-efficient and environmentally responsible manner.
For further information, contact Mike Staffenbeal at (402) 544-4227.
The statements and information contained in the news releases provided by Union Pacific speak only as of the date issued. Such information by its nature may become outdated, and investors should not assume that the statements and information contained in Union Pacific's news releases remain current after the date issued. Union Pacific makes no commitment, and disclaims any duty, to update any of this information.

Time Warner Cable back online after nationwide Internet outage - Aug. 27, 2014

Time Warner Cable, one of the nation's largest cable and broadband providers, suffered an unusual nationwide Internet outage early Wednesday morning, sparking new complaints about the company's service.

Andrew Cuomo, the governor of New York, said regulators in his state would investigate the downtime as part of an ongoing review of Time Warner Cable's proposed merger with Comcast.


Time Warner Cable back online after nationwide Internet outage - Aug. 27, 2014

Export Financing Programs to Help Grow Your Business

Tapping into international markets is one way to expand your customer base and grow your small business exponentially. However, small businesses face many barriers to exporting including high shipping costs, unfair trade policies by other countries, cultural differences and other challenges.
To help small businesses overcome these obstacles and mitigate the risk of exporting, the federal government provides a wide range of financial support. There are generally four main types of export assistance programs.


Export Financing Programs to Help Grow Your Business

IMF chief Lagarde under investigation in France - Aug. 27, 2014

Christine Lagarde, the head of the International Monetary Fund, has been placed under formal investigation in France for her alleged involvement in a long-running fraud case.

Under French law, a formal investigation means prosecutors believe they have serious evidence implicating a suspect in a crime. It does not necessarily lead to charges or a trial.


IMF chief Lagarde under investigation in France - Aug. 27, 2014

This Startups Solar Lighting in Africa Provides Protection

How do you stop a lion from attacking your farm animals? If this isn’t a problem you encounter often, then you probably weren’t aware that bright lights help keep the predatory animals away at night. But it is a problem for farmers in rural Africa – and so is getting electricity to their homes.
Until recently, one of the only solutions to this problem was to use old-fashioned kerosene lamps. These lamps use expensive fossil fuel and emit poisonous fumes when burned.


This Startups Solar Lighting in Africa Provides Protection

European Commission Approves Bristol-Myers Squibb’s Daklinza (daclatasvir) Across Multiple Genotypes for the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Infection

Bristol-Myers Squibb News Release:

European Commission Approves Bristol-Myers Squibb’s Daklinza (daclatasvir) Across Multiple Genotypes for the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C Infection

Daklinza, when used in combination with sofosbuvir, is an all-oral, once daily regimen that yields cure rates of up to 100%
Daklinza + sofosbuvir offers potential cure for a broad range of EU HCV patients, including those with advanced liver disease, genotype 3 and protease inhibitor failures

Category: 

Wednesday, August 27, 2014 5:00 am EDT
"We are proud to have discovered, developed and now brought to market this first-in-class NS5A replication complex inhibitor. We look forward to our continued work with EU health authorities to ensure Daklinza-based regimens are available to patients as quickly as possible."
PRINCETON, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY) today announced that the European Commission has approved Daklinza (daclatasvir), a potent, pan-genotypic NS5A replication complex inhibitor (in vitro), for use in combination with other medicinal products across genotypes 1, 2, 3 and 4 for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in adults. Daklinza, when used in combination with sofosbuvir, is an all-oral, interferon-free regimen that provided cure rates of up to 100% in clinical trials, including patients with advanced liver disease, genotype 3 and those who have previously failed treatment with protease inhibitors. Daklinza is the first NS5A complex inhibitor approved in the European Union (EU) and will be available for use in combination with other medicinal products, providing a shorter treatment duration (12 or 24 weeks) compared to 48 weeks of treatment with interferon- and ribavirin-based regimens.
Today’s approval allows for the marketing of Daklinza in all 28 Member States of the EU. The marketing authorization forDaklinza follows an accelerated assessment by the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP), a designation that is granted to new medicines of major public health interest.
“HCV is a challenging virus to overcome, requiring multiple modes of attack. With the approval of Daklinza, we have a new class of drug that disrupts the virus in two ways - by inhibiting both viral replication and assembly - and when combined with other compounds often results in cure among even the hardest-to-treat patients,” said Michael P. Manns, MD, Professor and Chairman, Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
Of the estimated nine million people living with HCV in the EU, genotype 1 is the most common genotype, though distribution varies across the region. The burden of liver disease and other morbidities from HCV infection is significant in Europe, where HCV accounts for 63% of liver transplants among patients with virus-related liver disease. Patient populations with high unmet needs include those with advanced liver disease, protease inhibitor failure, genotype 3, HIV co-infected patients and those who have undergone liver transplant.
“The eradication of HCV is in sight, and with today’s approval, Daklinza, in combination with other agents, will be an important option to achieve cure across many HCV genotypes and patient types for those in the EU who are in dire need of new treatment choices,” said Emmanuel Blin, Head of Worldwide Commercialization, Bristol-Myers Squibb. “We are proud to have discovered, developed and now brought to market this first-in-class NS5A replication complex inhibitor. We look forward to our continued work with EU health authorities to ensure Daklinza-based regimens are available to patients as quickly as possible.”
The approval of Daklinza is supported by data from multiple studies, including an open-label, randomized study of Daklinza with sofosbuvir in genotypes 1, 2, and 3, including patients with no response to prior therapy with telaprevir or boceprevir and patients with fibrosis. Results showed that a regimen of Daklinza with sofosbuvir achieved SVR12 (sustained virologic response 12 weeks after the end of treatment; a functional cure) in 99% of treatment-naïve patients with HCV genotype 1, 100% of patients with genotype 1 who had failed treatment with either telaprevir or boceprevir, 96% of those with genotype 2 and 89% of those with genotype 3.
In addition, the regimen resulted in low rates of discontinuation (<1%) due to adverse events (AEs). The rate of serious adverse events (SAEs) was low (4.7%). The most common adverse events were fatigue, headache and nausea. Across clinical studies, Daklinza-based regimens have been generally well tolerated with low rates of discontinuation across a range of patients. Ongoing and completedDaklinza studies have included more than 5,500 patients in a variety of all-oral regimens and with the current interferon-based standard of care.
The safety of Daklinza for the treatment of hepatitis C has been demonstrated in diverse patient populations that include elderly patients, patients with advanced liver disease, post-liver transplant recipients and patients co-infected with HIV. No unique safety concerns have been identified in patients who were treated withDaklinza across clinical studies and in the early access program. Several of these studies are ongoing.
Recommended regimens and treatment duration for Daklinza combination therapy include:
 
HCV genotype and patient population  Treatment  Duration
Genotype 1 or 4 without cirrhosis  
Daklinza + sofosbuvir
  12 weeks
Consider prolongation of treatment to 24 weeks for patients with prior treatment including a NS3/4A protease inhibitor (see sections 4.4 and 5.1).
Genotype 1 or 4 with compensated cirrhosis  Daklinza + sofosbuvir  24 weeks
Shortening treatment to 12 weeks may be considered for previously untreated patients with cirrhosis and positive prognostic factors such as IL28B CC genotype and/or low baseline viral load.
Consider adding ribavirin for patients with very advanced liver disease or with other negative prognostic factors such as prior treatment experience.
Genotype 3 with compensated cirrhosis and/or treatment experienced  Daklinza + sofosbuvir + ribavirin  24 weeks
Genotype 4  Daklinza + peginterferon alfa + ribavirin  24 weeks of Daklinza in combination with 24-48 weeks of peginterferon alfa and ribavirin.
If the patient has HCV RNA undetectable at both treatment weeks 4 and 12, all 3 components of the regimen should be continued for a total duration of 24 weeks. If the patient achieves HCV RNA undetectable, but not at both treatment weeks 4 and 12, Daklinza should be discontinued at 24 weeks and peginterferon alfa and ribavirin continued for a total duration of 48 weeks.
Daklinza monotherapy is not recommended. The Summary of Product Characteristics will be available at www.ema.europa.eu. Commercial availability of Daklinza in the EU will be determined by individual Member States.
About Hepatitis C
Globally, there are 150 million people infected with HCV and of that, an estimated 9 million people are living with hepatitis C in the European Union (EU). Hepatitis C is a virus that infects the liver and is transmitted through direct contact with infected blood and blood products. Up to 90 percent of those infected with hepatitis C will not spontaneously clear the virus and will become chronically infected. According to the World Health Organization, 20 percent of people with chronic hepatitis C will develop cirrhosis and, of those, about 5 to 7 percent of patients may ultimately die of the consequences of infection.
About Bristol-Myers Squibb’s HCV Portfolio
Bristol-Myers Squibb’s research efforts are focused on advancing late-stage compounds to deliver the most value to patients with hepatitis C. At the core of our pipeline is daclatasvir, a potent pan-genotypic NS5A complex inhibitor (in vitro), which continues to be investigated in multiple treatment regimens and in people with co-morbidities.
Daklinza was recently approved in Japan in combination with Sunvepra(asunaprevir), a NS3/4A protease inhibitor. The Daklinza+Sunvepra Dual Regimen is Japan’s first all-oral, interferon- and ribavirin-free treatment regimen for patients with genotype 1 chronic HCV infection, including those with compensated cirrhosis.
Applications for the daclatasvir Dual Regimen are also under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which granted priority review status and set a target review date under the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) of November 30, 2014.
In 2014, the FDA granted Bristol-Myers Squibb’s investigational daclatasvir Dual Regimen (daclatasvir + asunaprevir) Breakthrough Therapy Designation for use as a combination therapy in the treatment of genotype 1b HCV infection.
In 2013, Bristol-Myers Squibb’s investigational all-oral 3DAA Regimen (daclatasvir/asunaprevir/BMS-791325) also received Breakthrough Therapy Designation in the U.S., which helped to expedite the start of the ongoing Phase 3 UNITY Program. Study populations include non-cirrhotic naïve, cirrhotic naïve and previously treated patients. The daclatasvir 3DAA Regimen is being studied as a fixed-dose-combination treatment with twice daily dosing.
Additional studies with daclatasvir in combination with sofosbuvir are being conducted in high unmet need patients, such as pre- and post-transplant patients, HIV/HCV co-infected patients and patients with genotype 3 as part of the ongoing Phase 3 ALLY Program.
About Bristol-Myers Squibb
Bristol-Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For more information, please visit http://www.bms.com or follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/bmsnews.
Bristol-Myers Squibb Forward Looking Statement
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding the research, development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and involve inherent risks and uncertainties, including factors that could delay, divert or change any of them, and could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from current expectations. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Among other risks, there can be no guarantee that Daklinza will be a commercially successful product. Forward-looking statements in this press release should be evaluated together with the many uncertainties that affect Bristol-Myers Squibb's business, particularly those identified in the cautionary factors discussion in Bristol-Myers Squibb's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013, in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and our Current Reports on Form 8-K. Bristol-Myers Squibb undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Duke Energy CEO Lynn J. Good to address 2014 Barclays Capital CEO Energy-Power Conference in New York City Sept. 3 - Duke Energy

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -
Lynn J. Good, Duke Energy’s president and chief executive officer, will present at the 2014 Barclays Capital CEO Energy-Power Conference in New York City on Wednesday, Sept. 3, from 11:45 a.m. to 12:20 p.m.


Duke Energy CEO Lynn J. Good to address 2014 Barclays Capital CEO Energy-Power Conference in New York City Sept. 3 - Duke Energy

From broke mom to multimillion-dollar success

At one point she had only $13 in her bank account and now she runs a multimillion-dollar business.
Meet single mom turned entrepreneur Melissa Kieling—founder and CEO of PackIt, which makes freezable coolers that have attracted the attention of national retailers, like Wal-Mart and Target, as well as Hollywood stars.


From broke mom to multimillion-dollar success

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

HubSpot IPO Has Been Filed For, Hoping to Raise $100 Million

HubSpot, the inbound marketing company founded by Brian Halligan and Dharmesh Shah in 2006, has filed its intentions for an Initial Public Offering.
The company says it hopes to raise $100 million from sales of public stock,according to its S-1 filing with the Security Exchange Commission. Hubspot says it plans to list shares on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol HUBS.


HubSpot IPO Has Been Filed For, Hoping to Raise $100 Million

Johnson Controls invests as cooperation partner in future technology for lightweight construction project

Johnson Controls News Release:

Johnson Controls invests as cooperation partner in future technology for lightweight construction project
Combination of steel and aluminum in laser-welded tailored tubes offers attractive savings potential in high-volume seat back production
PLYMOUTH, MICH. (August 21, 2014) – Johnson Controls, a global multi-industrial company, is investing in an automotive research project that combines two approaches to lightweight construction for the first time. The partners from science and industry are working on tailored tubes made of a hybrid of steel and aluminum. The result could be a 10 to 20 percent reduction in weight, which would be beneficial for fuel and emissions balance. 
Tailored tubes are already used to a great extent in the large series production of vehicle seats, but here they consist of steel and aluminum of various wall thicknesses. As part of the research project “Hydroforming of laser-brazed tailored hybrid tubes of a steel-aluminum blend for automotive lightweight construction (IHU-THT)” underway since March 2014, project partners are researching the opportunity to make use of the significant weight advantages of aluminum by combining it with steel in the hollow components.
“The primary challenge is first connecting the steel and aluminum tube segments,” explained Andreas Eppinger, group vice president technology management, Johnson Controls Automotive Seating. “The hollow components are given their final geometry by means of hydroforming. Conventional bonding processes such as welding are not suited for the connecting welds between aluminum and steel because they cannot withstand the extreme pressure from the fluid medium during the hydroforming process.” The research team, consisting of scientists from the Institute for Integrated Production (IPH) and the Hanover Laser Center (LZH), is using laser-brazing to create a sturdy and durable weld. During the project’s 24-month duration, scientists, companies in the field of laser technology, and automotive suppliers and manufacturers will be working intently to optimize the production process and prepare for industrial applications such as automotive body parts, impact protection for doors and seat cross members.
“We are currently investing first and foremost in development and simulation services, and supporting the project with extensive component tests. In the next step, we will produce the components and then present a concept seat with a THT back,” said Eppinger.
The project, supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy as well as the Research Association for Automotive Technology (FAT), offers Johnson Controls several approaches with enormous future potential that are to be validated in the course of the project. “For one, we could realize an enormous reduction in weight with seat backs made of hybrid tailored tubes, not only from the lighter material mix of steel and aluminum, but also from using fewer components. We are also researching the option of a direct, high-strength integration of the seat back recliner. This way we could finally do away with the additional required adjustment parts and create global production processes that are both faster and more efficient,” said Eppinger. 
In addition, attractive design options are opened up with the extremely load-specific design of the seat back components. In designing its concept frame, Johnson Controls is using an optical lightweight construction with concave contours: an ultra-thin frame design with concave surfaces on the rear of the seat back will offer rear seat passengers unusually generous knee space and significantly increase package and ease of use. 
About Johnson Controls:
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 170,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful. In 2014, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #12 company in its annual “100 Best Corporate Citizens” list. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com or follow @johnsoncontrols on Twitter.
About Johnson Controls Automotive Experience:
Johnson Controls is a global leader in automotive seating, overhead systems, door and instrument panels. We support all major automakers in the differentiation of their vehicles through our products, technologies and advanced manufacturing capabilities. With 240 locations worldwide, we are where our customers need us to be. Consumers have enjoyed the comfort and style of our products, from single components to complete interiors. With our global capability, we supply approximately 50 million cars per year.
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American, US Airways sever ties with Orbitz - Aug. 26, 2014

The nation's largest airline is cutting ties with online booking agent Orbitz.

American Airlines and US Airways, which merged to form American Airlines Group (AAL)late last year, made the announcement Tuesday.


American, US Airways sever ties with Orbitz - Aug. 26, 2014

A List of Franchises in Security - Is One of These For You?

Like most people, when you think of franchises, you probably think of fast food franchises or retail franchises. But, there’s so much more to franchising. One sector worth mentioning is the security sector. There are franchises in security with opportunities in residential and business security, as well as in IT security.
According to ASIS International, an organization for security professionals, the security industry is a $350 Billion market. That’s the reason it’s worthy of discussion.


A List of Franchises in Security - Is One of These For You?

Bank of America Merrill Lynch Publishes Report on Latin America Market, “Driving Growth in Latin America” | Bank of America Newsroom

The Global Transaction Services business at Bank of America Merrill Lynch has published its annual report on the Latin America market, entitled “Driving Growth in Latin America.” The report, which appears in Treasury Management International magazine (TMI), includes a series of articles summarizing the challenges and opportunities for companies conducting business in the region. 



Bank of America Merrill Lynch Publishes Report on Latin America Market, “Driving Growth in Latin America” | Bank of America Newsroom

Quitting Your Day Job to Start a Business? Take This Test First

Unlike popular business myths, not everyone should start their own company. In fact, it is not the path to happiness and wealth for most people.
Every month, over a half million people will quit their day jobs to start a company. Many people have that big dream of betting it all to take a huge risk. Others have a business on the side or as Pamela Slim says, a “side hustle” going while they work a full time job.


Quitting Your Day Job to Start a Business? Take This Test First

Bank of America Continues to Help Address California’s Severe Drought | Bank of America Newsroom

Bank of America announced today two new initiatives as part of its ongoing efforts to help address California’s severe drought conditions, including a funding commitment to the Pacific Institute. The $250,000 grant will go toward the Institute’s drought research and response effort. The bank also announced it will expand the use of xeriscaping – drought-tolerant landscaping that significantly reduces the need for supplemental water – at its California banking centers. 



Bank of America Continues to Help Address California’s Severe Drought | Bank of America Newsroom

Amazon is eating Best Buy's lunch - Aug. 26, 2014

Best Buy just can't compete with Amazon.

The electronics retailer reported quarterly sales Tuesday morning that were lower than a year ago and below Wall Street's expectations. The main culprit? Tough competition from online retailers.


Amazon is eating Best Buy's lunch - Aug. 26, 2014

NetSuite SuiteCommerce Opens New Ecommerce Opportunities for Manufacturers and Distributors

SAN MATEO, Calif.—August 26, 2014—NetSuite Inc. (NYSE: N), the industry's leading provider of cloud-based financials / ERP and omnichannel commerce software suites, today announced that RST Brands, a manufacturer of home lifestyle décor and furnishings, and Christian Art Gifts, a distributor of Christian and inspirational gifts, are accelerating time to market with rapid SuiteCommerce implementations to support their omnichannel strategies to deliver a superior online shopping experience to both its B2B and B2C customers. RST Brands and Christian Art Gifts are among a growing number of businesses to capitalize on the flexibility and superior features SuiteCommerce offers to deliver a B2C-like shopping experience to dramatically improve customer engagement while streamlining internal efficiencies with NetSuite's single, unified cloud business management suite.



NetSuite SuiteCommerce Opens New Ecommerce Opportunities for Manufacturers and Distributors

Home prices crept up in June - Aug. 26, 2014

Home prices are still rising, but the pace of increases is definitely slowing.

National home prices rose 6.2% this spring, compared to the same three months last year, according to the S&P/Case-Shiller national home price index.


Home prices crept up in June - Aug. 26, 2014

Pfizer And Merck To Collaborate On Study Evaluating Novel Anti-Cancer Combination Regimen

Pfizer News Release:

Pfizer And Merck To Collaborate On Study Evaluating Novel Anti-Cancer Combination Regimen

Agreement to Combine Merck’s Investigational Anti-PD-1 Antibody Pembrolizumab and Pfizer’s Crizotinib (XALKORI®inClinical Trial
Tuesday, August 26, 2014 8:00 am EDT

Dateline:

NEW YORK & WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J.

Public Company Information:

NYSE:
PFE
US7170811035
NYSE:
MRK
"We are pleased to build upon our ongoing collaboration with Pfizer to evaluate potential combination regimens incorporating Merck’s investigational immunotherapy pembrolizumab"
NEW YORK & WHITEHOUSE STATION, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) and Merck & Co. Inc. (NYSE:MRK), known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, through a subsidiary, announced today that they have entered into an agreement to explore the therapeutic potential of the combination of Pfizer’s crizotinib (XALKORI®) with Merck’s investigational anti-PD-1 antibody pembrolizumab, in a Phase 1b clinical study evaluating the safety and tolerability of the combination in patients with ALK-positive advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
“This collaboration between Pfizer and Merck is just one example of the willingness of sponsors to work together in an effort to accelerate progress against some of the most difficult-to-treat cancers,” said Dr. Mace Rothenberg, senior vice president of Clinical Development and Medical Affairs and chief medical officer for Pfizer Oncology. “Understanding the effects of combining one drug, XALKORI, which inhibits an abnormally activated enzyme in patients with ALK-positive metastatic lung cancer, with the investigational drug, pembrolizumab, which harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer, is vital if we are to continue to advance the care of lung cancer patients.”
This multi-center, open-label clinical study is expected to begin in 2015. Pfizer will conduct the study.
“We are pleased to build upon our ongoing collaboration with Pfizer to evaluate potential combination regimens incorporating Merck’s investigational immunotherapy pembrolizumab,” said Dr. Eric Rubin, vice president, Oncology, Merck Research Laboratories. “Evidence from early studies of pembrolizumab monotherapy together with XALKORI’s proven targeted therapeutic approach provides the scientific rationale for evaluating this combination for the treatment of lung cancer.”
Both companies previously announced plans to evaluate the safety and efficacy of pembrolizumab in combination with Pfizer’s small molecule kinase inhibitor axitinib (INLYTA®) in patients with renal cell carcinoma. Separately, pembrolizumab plus Pfizer’s PF-05082566 (PF-2566), an investigational immuno-oncology agent that targets the human 4-1BB receptor, will be evaluated in multiple cancer types. These studies are expected to begin enrollment later this year.
About Pembrolizumab
Pembrolizumab (MK-3475) is an investigational, humanized, monoclonal antibody against PD-1 designed to reactivate anti-tumor immunity. Pembrolizumab exerts dual ligand blockade of the PD-1 pathway by inhibiting the interaction of PD-1 on T cells with its ligands PD-L1 and PD-L2.
Pembrolizumab is currently being evaluated across more than 30 types of cancers, as monotherapy and in combination. It is anticipated that by the end of 2014, the pembrolizumab development program will grow to more than 24 clinical trials, enrolling an estimated 6,000 patients at nearly 300 clinical trial sites worldwide. For information about Merck’s oncology clinical studies, please visit http://www.merck.com/clinical-trials/index.html.
XALKORI® (crizotinib) Indication and Important Safety Information
XALKORI is a kinase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) whose tumors are anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive as detected by an FDA-approved test.
Hepatotoxicity: Across three main clinical trials fatal hepatotoxicity occurred in 0.2% of patients. Monitor with periodic liver testing. Temporarily suspend, dose reduce, or permanently discontinue XALKORI.
Pneumonitis: Across three main clinical trials interstitial lung disease (ILD)/pneumonitis occurred in 2% of patients. Permanently discontinue in patients with ILD/pneumonitis.
QT Interval Prolongation: Across three main clinical trials QT interval prolongation occurred in 2.7% of patients. Monitor with electrocardiograms and electrolytes in patients who have a history of or predisposition for QTc prolongation, or who are taking medications that prolong QT. Temporarily suspend, dose reduce, or permanently discontinue XALKORI.
Bradycardia: Xalkori can cause bradycardia. Across three main clinical trials 11% of patients experienced a heart rate of less than 50 beats per minute. Monitor heart rate and blood pressure regularly. Temporarily suspend, dose reduce, or permanently discontinue XALKORI.
Embryofetal Toxicity: XALKORI can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant while receiving XALKORI.
Adverse Reactions: Across three main clinical trials the most common adverse reactions (≥25%) were vision disorders, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, edema, elevated transaminases, and fatigue.
In a phase 3 study in patients with ALK-positive metastatic NSCLC randomized to XALKORI (n=172) or chemotherapy (n=171), serious adverse reactions were reported in 37.2% of patients treated with XALKORI. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in patients treated with XALKORI were pneumonia (4.1%), pulmonary embolism (3.5%), dyspnea (2.3%), and ILD (2.9%). Fatal adverse reactions in XALKORI-treated patients occurred in 9 (5%) patients, consisting of: acute respiratory distress syndrome, arrhythmia, dyspnea, ILD, pneumonia, pneumonitis, pulmonary embolism, respiratory failure, and sepsis. Grade 3 or 4 events occurring at a higher incidence with XALKORI than with chemotherapy and at greater than 2%, were syncope (3%), QT prolongation (3%), and pulmonary embolism (5%). Elevation of ALT of any grade occurred in 76% of patients and grade 3 or 4 in 17% of patients. Neutropenia of any grade occurred in 49% of patients and grade 3 or 4 in 12% of patients. Lymphopenia of any grade occurred in 51% of patients and grade 3 or 4 in 9% of patients. Renal cysts occurred in 4% and neuropathy occurred in 19% of patients treated with XALKORI.
Drug Interactions: Exercise caution with concomitant use of moderate CYP3A inhibitors. Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice which may increase plasma concentrations of crizotinib. Avoid concomitant use of strong CYP3A inducers and inhibitors. Dose reduction may be needed for co-administered drugs that are predominantly metabolized by CYP3A.
Nursing Mothers: Given the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, consider whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue XALKORI.
Hepatic Impairment: XALKORI has not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment. As crizotinib is extensively metabolized in the liver, hepatic impairment is likely to increase plasma crizotinib concentrations. Use caution in patients with hepatic impairment.
Renal Impairment: Administer XALKORI at a starting dose of 250 mg taken orally once daily in patients with severe renal impairment (CLcr<30 mL/min) not requiring dialysis. No starting dose adjustment is needed for patients with mild and moderate renal impairment.
For more information and full prescribing information, please visit www.XALKORI.com.
About Pfizer Oncology
Pfizer Oncology is committed to the discovery, investigation and development of innovative treatment options to improve the outlook for cancer patients worldwide. Our strong pipeline of biologics and small molecules, one of the most robust in the industry, is studied with precise focus on identifying and translating the best scientific breakthroughs into clinical application for patients across a wide range of cancers. By working collaboratively with academic institutions, individual researchers, cooperative research groups, governments, and licensing partners, Pfizer Oncology strives to cure or control cancer with breakthrough medicines, to deliver the right drug for each patient at the right time. For more information, please visit www.Pfizer.com.
About Merck Oncology
At Merck Oncology, our goal is to translate breakthrough science into biomedical innovations to help people with cancer worldwide. Harnessing immune mechanisms to fight cancer is the priority focus of our oncology research and development program. The Company is advancing a pipeline of immunotherapy candidates and combination regimens. Cancer is one of the world's most urgent unmet medical needs. Helping to empower people to fight cancer is our passion. For information about Merck’s commitment to Oncology visit the Oncology Information Center at http://www.mercknewsroom.com/oncology-infocenter.
About Merck
Today's Merck is a global healthcare leader working to help the world be well. Merck is known as MSD outside the United States and Canada. Through our prescription medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, and consumer care and animal health products, we work with customers and operate in more than 140 countries to deliver innovative health solutions. We also demonstrate our commitment to increasing access to healthcare through far-reaching policies, programs and partnerships. For more information, visit www.merck.com and connect with us on TwitterFacebook and YouTube.
PFIZER DISCLOSURE NOTICE
The information contained in this release is as of August 26, 2014. Pfizer assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this release as the result of new information or future events or developments.
This release contains forward-looking information about an agreement between Pfizer and Merck to study the anti-cancer therapeutic potential of Pfizer’s XALKORI in combination with Merck’s investigational anti-PD-1 antibody pembrolizumab (MK-3475), as well as agreements entered into earlier this year between Pfizer and Merck to study the anti-cancer therapeutic potential of Pfizer’s INLYTA (axitinib) and PF-2566 in combination with Merck’s pembrolizumab, that involves substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Risks and uncertainties include, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including the ability to meet anticipated clinical study commencement and completion dates as well as the possibility of unfavorable study results; whether and when drug applications may be filed in any jurisdictions for any of the combination therapies; whether and when any such applications may be approved by regulatory authorities, as well as their decisions regarding labeling and other matters that could affect the availability or commercial potential of any of the combination therapies; and competitive developments.
A further description of risks and uncertainties can be found in Pfizer’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2013 and in its subsequent reports on Form 10-Q, including in the sections thereof captioned “Risk Factors” and “Forward-Looking Information That May Affect Future Results”, as well as in its subsequent reports on Form 8-K, all of which are filed with the SEC and available at www.sec.gov and www.pfizer.com.
Merck Forward-Looking Statement
This news release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of Merck’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. There can be no guarantees with respect to pipeline products that the products will receive the necessary regulatory approvals or that they will prove to be commercially successful. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate or risks or uncertainties materialize, actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements.
Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, general industry conditions and competition; general economic factors, including interest rate and currency exchange rate fluctuations; the impact of pharmaceutical industry regulation and healthcare legislation in the United States and internationally; global trends toward healthcare cost containment; technological advances, new products and patents attained by competitors; challenges inherent in new product development, including obtaining regulatory approval; Merck’s ability to accurately predict future market conditions; manufacturing difficulties or delays; financial instability of international economies and sovereign risk; dependence on the effectiveness of Merck’s patents and other protections for innovative products; and the exposure to litigation, including patent litigation, and/or regulatory actions.
Merck undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Additional factors that could cause results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements can be found in Merck’s 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K and the company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) available at the SEC’s Internet site (www.sec.gov).

Colorado Coffee Shop Focuses on Hiring the Homeless

If you visit RedTail Coffee in Fort Collins, Colorado, your barista could very well be homeless. The coffee shop aims to provide employment opportunities to homeless and low-income people in its community. But its owners also hope to change the attitudes of people throughout the rest of the area.
Seth Kelley, who opened the business with his wife Kelly, told the Coloradoan:


Colorado Coffee Shop Focuses on Hiring the Homeless

Begich Bill Could Reduce Healthcare Premiums by 18 Percent, Study Says

A bill proposed by Sen. Mark Begich (D-AK, pictured above) to amend the Affordable Care Act could lower health insurance premiums by 18 percent, a study says. The Expanded Consumer Choice Act creates a new, more affordable tier of healthcare coverage, known as the Copper level.
That could especially benefit very small  businesses who might have difficulty affording healthcare under the ACA otherwise. The National Association for the Self-Employed is among organizations praising the proposed legislation.


Begich Bill Could Reduce Healthcare Premiums by 18 Percent, Study Says

Duke Energy updates progress on Ohio River oil spill cleanup - Duke Energy

CINCINNATI, OHIO -
Duke Energy today released updated information on the diesel fuel spill that occurred on Aug. 18, at W.C. Beckjord Station, 20 miles southeast of Cincinnati.
As part of its ongoing investigation, Duke Energy has determined that the amount of fuel that spilled into the Ohio River was approximately 9,000 gallons. The original estimate was approximately 5,000 gallons.


Duke Energy updates progress on Ohio River oil spill cleanup - Duke Energy

GM's compensation fund gets 100th death claim - Aug. 25, 2014

General Motors executives have said the company would "do the right thing" for victims of its massive recall, and so far, 100 families are seeking money for someone who died.

GM received 100 death claims and 184 injury claims as of Friday, according to a spokeswoman for Ken Feinberg, a consultant hired to administer GM's compensation fund. He began receiving claims on Aug. 1 and will continue to do so until Dec. 31, 2014.


GM's compensation fund gets 100th death claim - Aug. 25, 2014

Monday, August 25, 2014

Burger King's CEO is only 33 - Aug. 25, 2014

Burger King's (BKW) scheme to lower its tax bill by merging withTim Horton's (THI) and moving to Canada sounds like something cooked up by veteran corporate bosses intent on squeezing every last bit of profit out of a relatively unsexy fast food chain.

But this is actually the brainchild of millennials. Burger King's management roster reads more like that of a Silicon Valley startup than old Wall Street suits and ties.


Burger King's CEO is only 33 - Aug. 25, 2014

No More Fumbling: Cool Reversible USB Connector Announced

If you’ve ever fumbled trying to figure out which end is up on a USB connector, relief is at hand.
The importance of the little USB connector to most of our daily business lives can’t be overstated. The plugins are used not just to connect smartphones and tablets to rechargers, but also to transfer data from these devices to a laptop, PC or other larger device.


No More Fumbling: Cool Reversible USB Connector Announced

Small Business Home Mortgage Borrowing Remains Historically High

The fraction of small business borrowing that comes from home mortgage loans has declined since the end of the housing boom. However, small business owners will need to further wean themselves from home equity as a source of business credit before home mortgage-based small business finance returns to pre-housing boom levels, Federal Reserve data reveal.



Small Business Home Mortgage Borrowing Remains Historically High

Los Angeles Dodgers, UnitedHealthcare Beautify School Playgrounds, Encourage Children to Get Physically Active

UnitedHealth Group Press Release:

Los Angeles Dodgers, UnitedHealthcare Beautify School Playgrounds, Encourage Children to Get Physically Active
  • Dodgers alumni and staff, and nearly 275 volunteers from UnitedHealthcare to participate in “Days of Service and Play” at 11 “Dodgers Community of Schools” campuses
  • Volunteer projects with Playworks and the Los Angeles Conservation Corps to bring the power of play to more than 5,000 kids

LOS ANGELES (Aug. 25, 2014) — 
Los Angeles Dodgers alumni and staff, and nearly 275 UnitedHealthcare employees are joining today, Tuesday and Wednesday in “Days of Service and Play” at 11 “Dodgers Community of Schools” locations surrounding Dodger Stadium.
The Los Angeles Dodgers and UnitedHealthcare are continuing their partnership to promote health and wellness and give children a clean, safe place to play at their schools.
The 11 Dodgers Community of Schools locations include Allessandro, Ann, Castelar, Clifford Street, Dorris Place, Elysian Heights, Logan, Solano, Irving, King and Nightingale. Volunteers will meet at Dodger Stadium and will be assigned service projects at each of the schools.
Volunteer activities will vary at each school, but will include recreational play and school beautification. Representatives from Playworks will work with volunteers to bring the power of play to the schools by playing four square, catch and jump rope with the children. The Los Angeles Conservation Corps will lead school-beautification projects, which include cleaning playgrounds, and landscaping and restriping play areas.
“Being able to help our youngest fans through the ‘Dodgers Community of Schools’ is one of the initiatives we’re most proud of,” said Stan Kasten, president, Los Angeles Dodgers. “We are thrilled to work with UnitedHealthcare on the ‘Days of Service and Play’ again this year.”
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ Community of Schools is a partnership that focuses on student achievement, health and wellness, and recreation through educational programs, civic engagement, strategic partnerships and student incentives.
“UnitedHealthcare and our employees are grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Dodgers to help build a healthier community in Los Angeles by improving school playgrounds and encouraging children to get physically active in a fun, safe environment,” said Brandon Cuevas of UnitedHealthcare.
This project is the latest in UnitedHealthcare’s “Do Good. Live Well.” employee volunteer initiative, whose mission is to prevent hunger and obesity, inspire service and encourage volunteerism. For more information about the benefits of volunteering and to find local opportunities to get involved, visit www.DoGoodLiveWell.org. Follow @DoGoodLiveWell on Twitter or “like” Do Good. Live Well. on Facebook.
About the Los Angeles Dodgers 
The Los Angeles Dodgers franchise, with six World Series championships and 21 National League pennants since its beginnings in Brooklyn in 1890, is committed to a tradition of pride and excellence. The Dodgers are dedicated to supporting a culture of winning baseball, providing a first-class, fan-friendly experience at Dodger Stadium, and building a strong partnership with the community. With the highest cumulative fan attendance in Major League Baseball history, and a record of breaking barriers, the Dodgers are one of the most cherished sports franchises in the world.
About Playworks 
Playworks’ vision is that one day, every child in America will have access to safe, healthy play every day. Play creates essential opportunities for children to explore their imaginations, to connect with other people and to stretch and grow physically, emotionally and socially.
About the Los Angeles Conservation Corps
The Los Angeles Conservation Corp’s mission is to provide at-risk young adults and school-aged youth with opportunities for success through job skills training, education and work experience with an emphasis on conservation and service projects that benefit the community.
About UnitedHealthcare 
UnitedHealthcare is dedicated to helping people nationwide live healthier lives by simplifying the health care experience, meeting consumer health and wellness needs, and sustaining trusted relationships with care providers. The company offers the full spectrum of health benefit programs for individuals, employers and Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, and contracts directly with more than 800,000 physicians and care professionals, and 6,000 hospitals and other care facilities nationwide. Globally, UnitedHealthcare serves more than 45 million people in health benefits and is one of the businesses of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH), a diversified Fortune 50 health and well-being company.